Chidamide

Chidamide is an oral, selective histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) from the benzamide class. It targets histone deacetylases HDAC1, HDAC2, HDAC3, and HDAC10, leading to increased acetylation of histones and other proteins. This epigenetic modulation alters gene expression and can induce cell-cycle arrest, differentiation, and apoptosis in cancer cells.

Clinically, chidamide is approved in mainland China for relapsed or refractory peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL). It has also been evaluated in other hematologic malignancies and selected solid tumors in phase II and III studies, and is being explored in combination regimens with chemotherapy or other targeted agents in various cancers.

Common adverse events observed in trials include hematologic abnormalities such as thrombocytopenia and neutropenia, as well as fatigue, nausea, and anemia. Most adverse events are manageable with standard supportive care and dose adjustments.

Chidamide is administered orally. Its regulatory status outside China varies, with ongoing research to define its role in other cancers and in combination therapies.